Visitors to learn pet safety through new BARK Ranger program at Palo Duro

CANYON, Texas (KVII) — A self-guided program aimed at educating those who take their pets to Palo Duro Canyon State Park is now available to visitors. The program titled BARK Ranger is more than a list of do’s and don’ts for you and your furry friends it’s a guide to help keep you and others safe from potential harm.

“So we're seeing a huge influx here at the park of folks bringing their pets,” said Haley Richardson, Trails & Resources manager.

Upon entering the grounds at Palo Duro Canyon State Park, you are solely responsible for the actions of your pet.

“Your pets are not allowed in our state facilities they have to remain on at least a six-foot leash not longer than six and a half feet leash at all times,” said Richardson.

“So, Palo Duro is a beautiful place but it’s a wild place it’s not a city park,” said Kevin Lane, volunteer interpreter.

The staff here at Palo Duro Canyon State Park is rolling out BARK Ranger, which is aimed at educating visitors especially those who bring a pet.

“We get people to follow these rules and show they are a good role model for their fury friend out here in the park,” said Richardson. “It will help encourage everyone to follow those rules.”

For anyone who is on the trails or exploring inside the park calling 911 needs to be for an emergency situation only.

If your dog has disappeared don’t call 911 call the park,” said Lane. “We’ll try and help you find the dog but 911 is for emergencies only. We have enough emergencies down here at the park and we want to keep that line clear.”

There is wildlife 12 months out of the year inside the park and some of the wildlife can potentially present a danger to pets.

“Absolutely I’ve seen coyotes down here in the campground stalk pets before so they can go over after a dog in a heartbeat,” said Lane.

Upon completion of the Bark Ranger Program, you will receive a certificate you will also receive a dog collar and tag in the future which will help identify your pets upon entering the park.

BARK Ranger was started years ago by the National Parks Service and is recently expanding across the country into more state parks to help keep pets and visitors safe. Palo Duro Canyon State Park is the second park in Region 5 of the state to make it available for visitors.